rdmarble.com
Vinegar is a popular natural cleaning agent due to its acidity and antibacterial properties. However, it’s not suitable for every cleaning task. While vinegar can be an effective and eco-friendly cleaner for many household tasks, it’s crucial to know its limitations. By avoiding these ten items, you can protect your surfaces and belongings while maintaining a clean home. Always consider alternative cleaning methods or products that are specifically designed for the task at hand to ensure the best results. Here are ten things you should never clean with vinegar, along with detailed explanations and alternative tips.
Natural Stone Surfaces
Why: Vinegar’s acidity can damage surfaces like granite, marble, and limestone, leading to etching and dullness.
Tip: Use a pH-balanced stone cleaner or a mixture of mild soap and water for cleaning.
rdmarble.com
Wood Furniture
Why: Vinegar can strip the finish and damage the wood, making it look dull and worn over time.
Tip: Use a solution of water and a few drops of dish soap, followed by a dry cloth for polishing.
woodcraft.ca
Egg Stains
Why: Vinegar can cause egg proteins to coagulate, making the stain harder to remove.
Tip: Use cold water to rinse off fresh egg spills, followed by a mild detergent solution.
thespruce.com
Electronic Screens
Why: The acidity can damage the protective coatings on screens, leading to streaks or permanent damage.
Tip: Use a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with water or a screen-safe cleaner.
giveitgetit.org
Certain Fabrics
Why: Vinegar can cause discoloration or fading in fabrics like silk or some synthetics.
Tip: Always check the care label and opt for a mild detergent or fabric cleaner instead.
burieddiamond.com
Waxed Surfaces
Why: Vinegar can break down wax finishes, leaving surfaces sticky or dull.
Tip: Use a gentle soap solution, and consider reapplying wax after cleaning.
SomTaste/Shutterstock
Mold and Mildew
Why: While vinegar can inhibit some mold growth, it doesn’t effectively kill all mold types, especially black mold.
Tip: Use a commercial mold remover or a mixture of water and baking soda for more effective results.
wetandforget.com
Car Surfaces
Why: Vinegar can damage the paint, plastics, and upholstery in your car.
Tip: Use a dedicated car cleaner or a solution of water and mild soap specifically designed for automotive surfaces.
New Africa | Credit: Shutterstock
Aluminum
Why: Vinegar can react with aluminum, causing it to oxidize and discolor.
Tip: Clean aluminum with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, or use a specialized aluminum cleaner.
sefa ozel
Computer Keyboards and Mice
Why: The acidity of vinegar can corrode internal components, and excess moisture can damage electronics.
Tip: Use compressed air to clean keyboards and a lightly dampened cloth with water for mice.
Amazon